Q:

I dont have diabetes. But I'm overweight, on prednisone and on the high side of normal. I have an ulcer in my right big toe and the bone is infected. I have had two previous partial amputations in it before. Is there a possibility that all of this could make me diabetic?

A:

Infections that don’t heal quickly can be a sign of diabetes, and prednisone, if taken over long periods of time (as one might for asthma and some other chronic conditions) can cause an elevation in blood glucose levels and, in certain situations, can hasten the onset of diabetes. If in the past your blood glucose levels have been higher than average, you will want to be checked more often to rule out diabetes. One of the more sensitive tests for diabetes is called a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. An oral glucose tolerance test consists of getting a fasting blood glucose test, drinking some sugary fluid and then returning in 2 hours to have the blood rechecked. If you have pre-diabetes, your blood glucose at 2 hours will be between 140 and 199. If you have diabetes, your blood glucose will be 200 or above.

1 reply

I had my toe amputated Dec 28 im doing ok. I asked my Dr to check me again for diabetes. He said no no reason. I was normal before but this last time I was on the high side of normal. I was upset. So soon I will ask for that 2hr glucose tolerance test. Thank u for ur info. Its very hard to lose weight. Ive been on prednisone or sle lupus since 16 when I was diagnosed. I have neuropathy to and other secondary conditions.im only 33 Everythijg went down hill for me in 2008 with my 1st partial amputation. No cardio exercize pounds rolled on. Depressing. I dont recognize me

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